From the USSR to the Commonwealth of Independent States: Confederation or Civilized Divorce?

Abstract

Abstract The dissolution of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics and the creation of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) mark a crucial turning-point in the political landscape of Europe and indeed in world history. The revolutionary process of systemic change and national liberation is, however, not yet terminated, and the CIS also seems to be on the brink of collapse. The republics are shaken by domestic instabilities, powerful centrifugal forces are pulling the post-Soviet states further apart, and interrepublican ties are beset with serious political, military, and economic conflicts. The ambitious plans to create a common market, a political union, and a military alliance at the same time could not be realized. Most observers have written off the CIS as a viable institution. Despite the serious challenges facing this heterogeneous confederation of states in statu nascendi, some progress towards institutionalization and integration can nevertheless be observed. Moreover, despite the often confusing, chaotic nature of alliance politics in the new Commonwealth, the republican leaders, have a fairly good track-record in managing conflicts, finding compromises, and co-ordinating policy.